Try not to take secret literally here. We know that word travels fast in San Diego and many of these speakeasies and hidden bars are quite popular, but when we say secret, we mean they’re not so obvious to the naked eye. Hidden behind a bookshelf, a revolving door, down a staircase, behind a bar, or hidden in plain sight in a bustling downtown, that’s the definition of a secret speakeasy in San Diego. These speakeasies are not only hidden, but they’ve got amazing themes, vibes, decor, and, of course, cocktails. Here are 8 of our favorite secret speakeasies and hidden bars in San Diego.
1. Raised by Wolves
Once named one of the best 50 bars in North America, Raised by Wolves is one of the most popular speakeasies in San Diego. Raised by Wolves specializes in rare and vintage spirits and houses them in an old-world style venue underneath a glass dome. Once you first arrive, sit on the revolving chair that takes you into the speakeasy, where we’d recommend an Old-Fashioned or their popular Banana Cream Flip. We’d also highly recommend a reservation, as this is one of the most popular speakeasies in San Diego.
Location: 4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA
2. Forbidden Cove
This hidden bar is a funky, colorful and eclectic tiki-themed speakeasy in San Diego called Forbidden Cove. Nets, glow-in-the-dark decor, and tiki-themed drinks abound at this location hidden behind a wall at Kilowatt Brewing Kearny Mesa specializing in craft cocktails and craft beer. Reservations should be made online, though they do set aside some space for walk-ins.
Location: 7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. San Diego, CA
3. Oculto 477
Oculto 477 is hidden near a cemetery inside the mezcal tasting room Tahona Bar. The cocktails are, you guessed it, mezcal-forward with a small selection of zero ABV too. If you’re a big cocktail lover, why not leave it in the hands of the bartenders? Tell them what you like and they’ll prepare a specialty drink just for you or go further with their Risk It All option, where you leave the fate of your drink entirely in the roll of 3 dice which will determine the ingredients.
Location: 2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA
4. Young Blood
Young Blood is the latest hidden cocktail bar to land on North America’s 50 Best Bars. Enter through a hidden door and present your ticket, needed to access the bar. The expert mixologists will then craft 3 specialty cocktails to each customer’s preferred palate in a 3-course customizable journey.
Location: 777 G St, San Diego, CA
5. Mothership
Enter galactic at Mothership, a dark and eclectically-themed cocktail bar that will transport you to another planet. The entire experience is truly immersive from the space-themed drinks to the starry ceiling to even the bathrooms. Because of its popularity, there is sometimes a wait for walk-ins and their reservation time is only 90 minutes which shouldn’t be too much of a problem since they primarily do tiki cocktails and small bites. Get in, enjoy, and then spend your time exploring South Park.
Location: 2310 30th St, San Diego
6. Room56
Tucked away in the Moxy Hotel is a basement transformed into a slinky, vibe-y speakeasy called Room56. Hidden behind a bookshelf, Room56 offers a small welcome drink upon arrival before you dig into their booklet menu filled with signature and classic cocktails made to perfection.
Location: 831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA
7. Part Time Lover
North Park’s record-themed speakeasy, Part Time Lover, is one of our favorite speakeasies in San Diego. An excellent sound system, great drinks, and an exclusive vinyl store in the back with curated picks you can choose from. We don’t think it gets better than music and cocktails. If you’re a fan of Youngblood and Raised by Wolves then add this one to your list as they’re all under the same amazing collective, Consortium Holdings.
Location: 3829 30th St, San Diego, CA
8. Prohibition
Prohibition is the proper definition of a speakeasy set in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. A 1920s-esque spot with a hidden door with a careful selection of live music and entertainment, exceptional drinks, and a vibe that’ll transport you in history. A dress code is encouraged.
Location: 548 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA